Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center facts for kids
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| Former name | Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center |
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| Established | 1983 |
| Location | 65 Government Street Mobile, Alabama, USA |
| Type | Science Museum |
| Visitors | 100,000 |
The Exploreum Science Center (also known as the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center) is a fun place in Mobile, Alabama. It's a science center where you can learn about science in many cool ways! You can explore exciting exhibits, watch movies in the Digital Dome, see live demonstrations, and even join workshops. The Exploreum has special areas like Hands On Hall, the Wharf of Wonder, Curiosity Factory, and My BodyWorks, which is all about health. They also bring in new, interactive exhibits throughout the year. These exhibits cover many different science topics and have extra learning activities.
History of the Exploreum
The idea for the Exploreum started in 1976. The Junior League of Mobile helped fund research for a hands-on museum. This led to the creation of The Explore Center, Inc., a non-profit group. A board of trustees was formed to guide the project.
The board worked hard and raised $1.3 million. This money helped build a 10,000 square foot building. It was located on Springhill Avenue. The Gulf Coast Exploreum "Museum of Science" opened its doors in 1983.
However, the museum quickly became too small. By 1987, a committee decided to find a new spot. They thought downtown Mobile would be perfect for a bigger, modern science center. It would even have an IMAX theater!
They started a big fundraising effort. Many companies, individuals, and government officials helped out. After 11 years of planning and 3 years of building, the new Exploreum opened in 1998. It is located on Government Street and is now a great place for people of all ages.
Exploreum Exhibits
The Exploreum has several exciting areas that are always there for you to explore:
- Hands On Hall: This was the Exploreum's first exhibit area. It has more than 20 interactive exhibits where you can touch and try things.
- The Wharf of Wonder: This area was created with help from the Junior League of Mobile. It's designed to spark your imagination.
- Curiosity Factory: This gallery encourages you to be curious and discover new things.
- My BodyWorks: This health exhibit opened in 2009. It's an interactive area designed just for the Exploreum. It teaches you about the human body and health. There's even a biology lab where educators do experiments.
The Exploreum also brings in many different traveling exhibits. These are temporary shows that come from other places. Some past exhibits have included:
- "Mysteries of Egypt: Wonderful Treasures from the Pharaoh's Tomb" (2001)
- "China! 7,000 Years of Innovation" (2002)
- "International Space Station" (2003)
- "The Brain: It's All In Your Head" (2004)
- "The Dead Sea Scrolls" (2005)
- "Mummy: The Inside Story" (2006)
- "A Day in Pompeii" (2007)
- "Our Body: The Universe Within" (2008), which explored the human body.
- "Bob the Builder - Project Built It" (2009)
- "Sea Lion Splash" (2010)
- "Kangaroo Kraze" (2011), which featured live kangaroos.
- "Genghis Khan: The Great Civilizer" (2019), which showed over 400 artifacts and had live performances.
Special Features
The Exploreum has some unique features that make it even more special:
- The J.L. Bedsole IMAX Dome Theater: This theater shows amazing IMAX films. It's the only domed IMAX theater on the Gulf Coast. You can watch movies that make you feel like you're right in the action!
- The Ciba Lab: In this lab, visitors can watch or even take part in exciting science demonstrations. It has seating like an amphitheater, so everyone can see clearly.
